28 November, 2017

“Enactus, is using entrepreneurial action to empower people to improve their livelihoods in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable way”

 

 

A lot of people have not heard about the society called “Enactus” or does not know what exactly this society does. The best way to describe the ethos of Enactus, and what it does, is through the quote stated underneath the title of this article. This a social enterprise society, where innovative ideas are created and implemented as a business to tackle current global social issues in accordance with the UN sustainability goals such as, poverty, quality education, clean water and sanitation, or equality. Not only does Enactus make an impact, it aims to empower people from disadvantaged background by providing them with a sustainable business.

 

In Ireland country, there are some very serious social problems such as homelessness, inequality in many areas such as those in disadvantaged background or due to mental health issues and many more. Enactus is aware that it is extremely hard to permanently wipe out these current issues, However, it aims to develop solutions that can be brought forward to help these social problems. “Cocoon” and “Trash 2 Cash”, are the two projects created by the Enactus team in CIT to tackle some of the social issues identified above.

 

“Cocoon” is an innovative idea which tackles the issue of homelessness by empowering young people who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. In Ireland the number of people sleeping rough on the streets have been on the rise for the past couple of years. “The most recent figures show a record total of 8,374 people homeless in Ireland. Nationally there are now 5,250 adults and 3,124 children homeless meaning that 37% of those living in emergency accommodation are children. The total number of people homeless rose by 25% from September 2016 to September 2017” (Extracted from Focus Ireland). Cocoon, is a diverse product which offers 3 features in one. It is a bag which can be folded out in to a tent, this provides adequate protection from the harsh weather conditions, and puts a roof on top of people’s head. The aim of this project is to be reusable, which is why it can be folded back into a bag and can be carried easily around.  This reduces waste and is more financially effective for charities to distribute to the homeless. The team are currently finalising the design and will be producing the first prototype of Cocoon. This product will be fully produced by young people from disadvantaged background, and gives them a sustainable income.

 

“Trash 2 Cash”, is another creative project developed by Enactus CIT, which aims to counter act the issue of environmental waste and the current recycling crisis by empowering the young people who come from disadvantaged backgrounds or suffer from mental health issues. Currently 75% of glass nationwide is being disposed of immediately after use and put in landfills. Enactus CIT saw the opportunity as glass is 100% recyclable and was not being utilized., the team decided to come up with the project “Trash 2 Cash”, which uses recycled glass bottle such as, wine, water and beer bottles, and creates beautiful candle holders, glasses, vases, and more. The main objective is to provide young underprivileged people with the necessary skills to make these products. A key aspect of the project is these products will be sold at local markets around Cork. This ensures a transfer of a practical skill, and provides the youth with income while keeping themselves active.

On 3rd of November 2017, both projects were selected and presented in front of a panel of three extremely qualified judges from CITI Bank to develop our projects. Enactus CIT was successful and was awarded a total of €920 to develop the two projects. This is funding very beneficial, as it allows both projects to continue to grow and develop making the ideas more successful.

 

Enactus wants more people to join its thriving society, people from all backgrounds are welcome to come and develop these projects. This is an excellent opportunity to change current inadequacies for the better, and make an impact for the better. Enactus CIT believes in these projects and hopes you will too.